Rivers let go by Magic after poor start

Salt Lake City, UT (Sports Network) – The Orlando Magic fired head coach Doc
Rivers after Monday’s loss to Utah, dropping the team to 1-10, and named
Johnny Davis as his replacement.

“We work in a bottom line business,” said team chief operating officer John
Weisbrod. “After a 1-10 start, it is our responsibility to do everything
possible to create the best opportunity for success. We are thankful to Doc
and are certain he will use this first experience on the bench to become a
successful head coach.”

Rivers had been the Orlando coach since June 7, 1999 and produced a 171-168
record. In his tenure, the Magic have made the playoffs in each of the last
three seasons. The 13-year veteran as a player, Rivers was honored as NBA
Coach of the Year in 1999-2000.

Davis was named assistant coach of the Magic on July 11, 1999 and is in his
fifth year with the team. Davis has spent the last 25 years in the league on
the court and in the front office.

“Johnny is an experienced leader,” added Weisbrod. “He is a solid teacher and
prides himself on developing talent. We want to give him the opportunity to
provide the new voice and direction that our team needs.”

The University of Dayton product, Davis has been assistant coach for 12 years.
He served with the Hawks, Clippers, Trail Blazers and Nets.

Davis, who also had a chance at being a head coach, went 22-60 in the 1996-97
campaign in Philly with the 76ers in his sole year with the team.

The Magic also released assistant coach Dave Wohl on Monday after their worst
start in their 15-year history.